The Tractor Boys were linked with the former Republic of Ireland U21 international in January and made a move for him in the summer, but he has revealed he was never told, so swapped Portsmouth for the Hammers instead.

Today the Suffolk side got their man, albeit on a temporary deal until January (with a 24-hour call-back option).

The 24-year-old goalkeeper, who only moved to Upton Park on a three-year deal in May, told itfc.co.uk: “I heard rumours about me coming here [Ipswich] but it never got anywhere near that.

“I was told by Portsmouth in January that two clubs had come in for me - Newcastle and West Ham.

“Portsmouth were in a bit of a mess at the time and we were never sure what was going on but I was never told that Ipswich was a possibility for me.

“If I’d known that, then I would have had a massive decision to make but it didn’t get anywhere near that.”

Henderson has found appearances with the Hammers limited this term, with his two outings coming in the Capital One Cup.

He said: “I’ve not played much football this season so when I was told I could go out on loan, my agent contacted Ipswich and once I knew they wanted me, that was it.

“I’ve played here a few times. It’s a fantastic football club and I’m really looking forward to the three months here and showing what I can do.”

Town boss Paul Jewell said: “It’s been well documented that we tried to bring Stephen to the club last season but Portsmouth did not accept our offer.

“We weren’t the only club after him and obviously he’s a West Ham player now and playing at a Premier League club. He’s been on the bench for them this season but when the opportunity came up to bring him here on loan, it’s one we wanted to take because he’s a very good goalkeeper and can only benefit the squad.”

Henderson joins Nigel Reo-Coker at Portman Road after the former West Ham midfielder joined as free agent this week.